Detective Sergeant Michigan State Police - Special Investigation Section
This case study will take you behind the scenes of the brutal murder of 14-year-old, April Millsap, who was walking her dog on a local trail. April’s body was found several feet off the trail in a wooded area beaten to death and clothes ripped off. The investigation was headed by the Michigan State Police Special Investigation Section and Armada Police with the assistance of numerous local and federal agencies. The instructors will provide information on the investigation in detail and the different methods and techniques used to identify the suspect, James VanCallis, who was later arrested and charged for the violent murder. Some of the evidence and techniques used were footwear comparison, cell phone app data, roadblock canvass and more. James VanCallis was sentenced to life in prison. See this link for more information.
Learning Objectives:
Understanding how to use different techniques and methods to investigate a child homicide.
Understanding the benefits of using multiple disciplines and teamwork when investigating violent crimes against children.
Understanding the importance of law enforcement working with social service groups and forensic interviewers.
